Best Deer Blind Heater (Safe, Quiet & Portable)

Let’s say you want to take your wife and kids out for a hunt in a hunting blind, but they get cold quickly. Luckily, you can pick up a portable blind heater, which is a life saver.

In this topic, I’ll show you: "Which is the best deer blind heater on the market?" and how to use them safely.

Ready? Let’s get into it…

• Best Overall: Mr. Heater Hunting Buddy
• Most Fuel Efficient: Nu-way M-2000
• Best Thermostat Ventless Heater: Bluu Propane
• Most Portable: Stealth Heat Heater
• Best Budget-Friendly Option: Mr. Heater Little Buddy

Our Top Picks:

1. Mr. Heater Hunting Buddy Portable Space Heater:

The Hunting Buddy is the best deer blind heater on our list.

It puts out INTENSE HEAT to warm your family through the cold weather.

Obviously, it won’t turn your blind into an oven, but it will help you to stay out in the cold condition for longer.

Key Features:

1. Hunter Friendly:

Unlike other heaters having a noisy ignition, the BIG ignition on the Hunting Buddy lights the heater easily and without making any noise.

The electronic ignitor works so smoothly and quietly that the deer won’t hear or notice it, even from within 10 yards. Awesome, right?

Besides that, the spark ignitor is separated from the pilot. This means you’re less likely to break your pilot, which lengthens the life of your heater.

The all-black coating is also practical in hunting situations, since it blends you well in the dark background of the blind.

2. Indoor Safety:

Using this electronically-started propane heater in an elevated blind or ground blind is EXTREMELY SAFE.

Why is that? Because it features a 3X PROTECTION system.

Let me explain:

1st protection: Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) system

Typically, a standard heater creates a lot of carbon monoxide (CO) and reduces the level of oxygen in the area as a result (while operating).

In that case, the Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) kicks in if the oxygen level drops to 18% or below. This sensor automatically shuts the heater down to keep the air quality at a safe level.

It’s pretty helpful when you forget or choose not to open the windows.

Even more:

The guy in this video did a 16 hour measurement of the carbon dioxide in an enclosed tent and cracked windows, and proved it to be indoor safe: 

My advice: BETTER SAFE THAN SORRY

• Always have a carbon monoxide alarm and a small fire extinguisher when using propane heaters, in the unlikely (but possible) event that something doesn’t quite go right.
• Always have a bit of ventilation… At least 12” square.

2nd protection: Tip-over auto-shut off

This feature comes in handy in case you accidentally knock the heater over.

It automatically turns itself off and prevents you and your stuff from getting burned. Really cool, right?

3rd protection:

Heavy-duty safety wire guard protects your clothes and loose items from accidentally contacting the heat source.

3. Extra (2nd Tank) Storage:

Whereas a standard heater allows for 1 propane bottle only, this heater has attachments for a 1 pound propane canister, PLUS space for the storage of another backup canister.

Using this top rated heater, it’ll keep you warm and comfortable in the freezing cold for up to 7.2 hours (on the low setting).

Or you can connect it to a separate 20 lbs tank with an adapter, EXTENDING your comfort for days.

Awesome, right?

Note:

Be sure you use the authorized propane filter and hose from Mr. Heater, OR you’ll ruin the warranty.

Drawbacks:

Bulky

This heater is pretty bulky if you’re backpacking into your hunting spot. It’s not so convenient to carry around.

Pricey propane

Replacing the 1 lb propane canisters regularly can be pretty pricey. Attaching to the bigger 20 lbs tank is more cost-effective.

Gas smell

Obviously, the propane gives off a bit of a smell while burning. But, it shouldn’t spook any deer as long as you keep your blind well ventilated.

Pros:

• Hunter friendly
• Quiet electronic ignition
• 2nd propane canister storage
• Safe for indoor use
• Well made
• Extremely warm in cold weather

Cons:

• Bulky
• Pricey for propane
• A little bit smelly

2. Nu-way M-2000 Propane Stove Heater:

The Nu-way M-2000 is the most fuel efficient vented heater.

It is like a propane BBQ grill in a box.

Compared to the Hunting Buddy above, it is safer, drier, and more fuel efficient.

Key Features:

1. Simpler and safer:

How simple is the design?

The simple box design conceals the flame, and features a big burners.

So it gives you a pretty wide range of adjustability.

In my experience, you should turn the burner on high for 20 mins before turning down to a low setting. Otherwise, it’ll likely become a bit too hot.

The best part?

You can turn the burner on and use them as a cooktop to keep your coffee and food hot.

How warm is it?

The heater really CRANKS OUT the heat and maximizes comfort in cold weather.

Actually, the M-2000 offers the same BTU as Mr. Heaters, up to 12,000 on the highest setting.

It’ll have no problem warming up a decently sized space.

Is it durable?

The heater is built-to-last, using 20-gauge steel, which has a lifespan well beyond 10 years.

Is it safer than Mr. Heater?

Sure, the advantage of the vented design is that it releases all the gas. It means:

• No stinky smell from the propane
• No worries about carbon monoxide poisoning
• No worries about your sensitive eyes watering

There’s more:

It integrates a Safety Shut-Off and AGA Approved Gas Valve for extra protection. Amazing right?

2. Much drier:

Unlike the ventless heaters that put out moist heat, the Nu-way M-2000 produces DRY HEAT.

It eliminates condensation (fog on the surface) and quickly dries your hunting clothes and boots.

Imagine how annoying it is when you turn off a ventless heater, the moisture in the blind turns into ice in the sub-zero temps.

Now you can forget about any condensation issues.

3. More fuel efficient:

This is the MOST FUEL EFFICIENT heater on our list.

You can enjoy your moose hunting trip for much longer than with the Hunting Buddy.

How long?

Instead of 72 hours of burning time, a 20 lb tank gets a crew THROUGH A WEEK of 7-10 hours per day, with no issue.

Yes, you read it right: Through 7 days.

Besides that, refiling a 20 lb tank is more cost-effective than using multiple 1 lb bottles.

Drawbacks:

Not really portable for hunting

Although it’s lighter (10 lbs) and more compact than the Hunting Buddy, it’s less convenient to carry in and out the blind.

Leaking heat

At first, whilst the venting is beneficial (for the reasons mentioned above), it also allows much of the heat to escape up the chimney, wasting some of the energy.

My suggestion: Install a damper half way up the pipe to keep the heat in.

Once you’ve adequately heated up the space, open the damper.

Expensive

It is more costly than the Mr. Heater, but the Made-in-USA quality makes up for the price difference.

Pros:

• Made in USA
• Easy to use
• Most fuel efficient
• Built to last
• Comfortable
• Safe operation
• Dry heat limits condensation
• No propane smell

Cons:

• Not very portable
• Leaks heat through the vent
• Pretty pricey

3. BLUU Propane Heater:

The Bluu is the best thermostat propane heater for use in a hunting blind. It’s safe, portable, and fuel-efficient, and won’t break the bank.

Key Features:

1. Thermostat heater:

This is the only propane heater featuring a real THERMOSTAT.

Unlike other traditional propane heaters, the thermostat saves up to 30% of your energy waste.

In other words, it keeps you nice and toasty for 30% longer (up to 5 hours on low) and puts 30% of fuel expenses back into your pocket.

How?

Instead of adjusting the heat manually, the built-in thermostat sustains the ambient temperature after reaching the pre-set level.

Just set it once, and let it do its thing. Pretty handy, right?

The integrated fan blows the heat out and warms up your blind very quickly.

2. Cheaper than the Hunting Buddy:

The Bluu offers most of the neat features of the Hunting Buddy at a 40% CHEAPER PRICE.

It gets most of the same features as Mr. Heaters, such as:

• The ODS system automatically shuts the heater off if the oxygen level goes below 18%.
• Tip-over shut off prevents any fire if it’s accidentally knocked over
• Heavy duty wire guard
• Can service a 300 square foot space
• Safe for indoor and outdoor use (CSA certified)
• Portable for hunting

3. Great customer service:

The Bluu team always stands behind their heaters. If something goes wrong, they’ll replace or repair it at no extra charge.

Not many brands offer such outstanding service.

Note: there are 2 options:

• 10,000 BTU: less powerful heater
• 20,000 BTU: more powerful heater

Drawbacks:

Noisy

The pilot light gets noisy when you light it up, which could alert any nearby wildlife.

Made in China

As it’s a lower-priced heater option, don’t expect it to be as durable as other heaters.

It’s reasonable to expect 1 or 2 good seasons out of it.

Pros:

• 30% more fuel efficient
• Built-in thermostat
• Auto shut off in low oxygen conditions or when tipped over
• CSA Certified
• Safe to use indoors and outdoors
• Portable for hunting
• Good customer service
• Reasonable price

Cons:

• Noisy
• Made in China
• Non-durable

4. Stealth Heat Heater:

Stealth Heat is the best portable heater for a small deer blind. It is lightweight, quiet and easy to carry.

Key Features:

1. Personal heater for solo hunters:

The Stealth is the best heater to use in a single man pop up deer blind, or for spot and stalk hunters who need a lightweight pack.

It’s so light (3 lbs) that you can separate the parts and put them into your pockets.

How does it work?

Basically the propane torch heats the stainless steel head up before radiating the heat around you.

It keeps your hand super warm even when it’s freezing out, which will go a long way to keeping you out in the field.

The best part: it works with NO NOISE and ZERO GLOW.

Unlike other propane heaters, the enclosed head hides the heat source from being visible.

It keeps you safe from the open flame while still offering long running times like the Hunting Buddy.

The result: the deer can’t see the glow from the Stealth heater, PLUS you’re less likely to spook them away.

2. Heavy duty:

The head is made of 100% stainless steel. Plus, all the parts are Made-in-USA, so it can last you for decades.

Drawbacks:

Tiny size

Since it’s a personal heater for 1 man, you can’t use it to warm up a big box blind.

Less reliable

It’s less dependable than the Mr. Heater, as it doesn’t include the advanced safety features such as: ODS or tip-over shut off.

You must strictly follow the Safety Precautions to make it safe to use in the field.

Pros:

• Portable
• Lightweight
• Quiet
• Made in USA
• Heavy duty

Cons:

• Tiny size
• Less reliable

5. Mr. Heater Little Buddy® Heater:

The Little Buddy is the best budget friendly heater on our list. It’s lighter, easier to use and more compact than the Hunting Buddy.

If you’re looking for a backup heat source in case you have issues with your main one, this is a great option.

Key Features:

1. Portable for hunting:

You’ll love the lightweight, portable and compact size of the Little Buddy.

It is less bulky, making it easy to strap to a backpack and venture into the woods with.

2. Simple operation:

The operation requires 1 hand only.

Just push and hold the start button for 30 seconds, and done. It’s that easy.

The angled heater is easy to adjust, allowing you to focus the heat on your body, hands or legs. However you wish!

3. Quick heating:

The efficient radiators put out lots of heat in minutes.

Imagine how toasty, enjoyable and comfortable you could be staying with your kids in a small blind for a few hours.

Don’t forget to open up a small part of the blind (at least 4” square) for safety and ventilation.

Does it include advanced features like the Hunting Buddy?

Yes, the Little Buddy retains the same neat features, including:

• ODS safety system
• Tip-over shut off
• Long running time
• Safe to use indoors

Drawbacks:

Can’t adjust the low/high heat settings

Since it has only 1 setting. You can’t adjust the heat levels if it becomes too hot for you.

The result: it’s easy to blow through 1 lb of propane, by not being able to dial down to “low”.

You’d better bring additional bottles if you want to extend your warmth.

Non ergonomic start button

The ignitor button is pretty hard to push and there’s no place to grip the rest of the fingers.

Pros:

• Simple operation
• Lightweight
• Portable
• Compact size
• Cheap
• Safe to use indoors
• Impressive heat output

Cons:

• Non-adjustable heat setting
• Awkward start button

FAQs:

Can you use a heater in a deer blind?

Yes, you can use any indoor safe certified heater for blind, such as the Mr. Heater and Bluu above.

Does having a heater in deer blind scare deer off?

Nope, they are unlikely to be bothered as long as you conceal your scent well, and following your regular good hunting habits.

My buddy - Tim used a heater in blind and had 7 does and fawns within 20 yards, but they never saw him.

How much ventilation does a Mr Buddy heater need?

The standard ventilation required is 1 square inch of ventilation for every 1000 BTUs.

For example:

Mr. Heater Hunting Buddy has a maximum BTU of 12000. It means you’ll need 12 square inches of ventilation.

Now:

Our final pick for the best deer blind heater is the “Mr. Heater Hunting Buddy”.

Here are the reasons you MUST TRY it:

• Big, quiet and easy to operate
• Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) automatically shuts off if the oxygen level drops to 18%
• Tip-over protection automatically turns off your heater in case you knock it over
• Safe for use indoors
• 2nd tank storage for extending your running time to up to 7.2 hours

So, which propane heater do you prefer? Or do you still love the traditional wood stove heater?

Let us know below!

And don't forget to block the cold out with these cozy gear:

• Best hunting jacket for cold weather
  
• Best heated vest for hunting
  
• Best heated socks for hunting